What does the term "littoral" refer to in relation to water rights?

The term "littoral" pertains specifically to landowner rights associated with property that borders large bodies of water, such as oceans or seas. When a property owner has littoral rights, they are entitled to access and use the water bodies directly adjacent to their land. This means that the owner has the right to enjoy the benefits of having water resources immediately available, including recreational activities and, in some cases, the right to access the shoreline.

Littoral rights differ from "riparian" rights, which apply to properties adjacent to flowing water bodies like rivers and streams. The distinction is key as it clarifies the context of water rights in relation to the type of water body with which the property is associated.

In contrast, the other options do not directly connect to the definition of littoral rights. The mention of irrigation, water canals, and the water table addresses different aspects of water use and management law but does not relate to the concept of littoral rights concerning property that abuts oceanfront or similar large bodies of water. Thus, the choice representing the scenario where an owner has land with ocean-front access accurately aligns with the legal understanding of littoral property rights.